This seminar concerns the evolution and current status of mixed race studies as a transnational phenomenon and the exploration of the formation of identities utilizing legal, social, and familial links. Geographic areas of particular investigation include, South Africa, the U.S., the Caribbean, and the Pacific where populations have emerged as distinct communities and under particular conditions. These enclaves have histories illustrative of the issues and we will roam across this terrain.

Topics of interest include but are not limited to: linguistic designations for mixed race populations (i.e., Naming and name calling), miscegenation, trans-racial adoption, passing, and personal history and memoirs.

Resources will be drawn from the visual arts, literature, film, popular culture, memoir and biographies, as well as theory to trace issues of common concern to peoples of mixed race.

Methodologies will include research into oral history and critical race theory.

Outcomes would include exhibition and publication.

The seminar is by permission of the instructor. Interested students should contact Professor West (ewest@umich.edu) to inquire.